Brief Overview of αἴτημα (G155)

The Greek word αἴτημα (aítēma) means “request” or “petition.” It refers to something that is asked for or demanded, often in a formal or specific manner. The term is used to describe a formal request or appeal made to someone, typically involving a need or desire for something.

Detailed Overview

1. Strong’s Concordance:

• G155 αἴτημα (aítēma): Strong’s defines this term as “request” or “petition.” It is used to denote something that is asked for or demanded, often in the context of formal appeals or petitions. For instance, it appears in Philippians 4:6, where it is used to refer to requests made through prayer and supplication. Strong’s emphasizes the term’s use in contexts involving formal or earnest requests.

1. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• According to Thayer’s, αἴτημα means “request” or “petition.” Thayer’s describes the term as referring to a specific thing that is asked for, often in a formal or earnest manner. It includes the idea of a request made with a sense of need or urgency (e.g., Philippians 4:6). Thayer’s highlights the term’s application in both general and specific contexts where formal requests or appeals are made.

1. Brown-Driver-Briggs (BDB) Lexicon:

• BDB describes αἴτημα as “request” or “petition.” The lexicon notes that this term encompasses requests or demands made to someone, typically in a formal or specific manner. It reflects the concept of making a formal appeal or asking for something with a certain level of seriousness or specificity (e.g., Philippians 4:6). BDB’s explanation emphasizes the term’s use in formal contexts of requesting or petitioning.

1. Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon:

• The LSJ Lexicon defines αἴτημα as “request” or “petition.” It describes the term as referring to something that is asked for or demanded, often in a formal or earnest manner. In classical and New Testament Greek, it is used to denote formal requests or appeals, reflecting a sense of need or urgency (e.g., Philippians 4:6). LSJ highlights the term’s application in making formal or specific requests.

In summary, αἴτημα refers to a request or petition, involving formal or specific appeals made to someone, and is used in both classical and New Testament contexts to denote earnest or formal requests.